Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf: Comfort Food Meets Cheesesteak Magic

Imagine the juicy, cheesy goodness of a Philly cheesesteak—thinly sliced beef, sautéed peppers, onions, gooey cheese—transformed into a hearty, oven-baked classic: meatloaf. This isn’t your grandma’s meatloaf (although we love hers, too). It’s a bold, flavorful, melty, modern twist that’s quickly becoming a family favorite.

This Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf is packed with flavor, loaded with melty provolone or mozzarella, and gets a rich umami boost from sautéed veggies, Worcestershire, and seasonings. It’s great for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or weekend comfort food cravings.

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Why This Recipe Works

✔️ Combines two classics—Philly cheesesteak + meatloaf
✔️ Super juicy and tender thanks to onion, bell pepper, and cheese
✔️ Melty cheese throughout and on top
✔️ Freezer- and meal-prep friendly
✔️ Customizable for spice level or cheese variety

This is the kind of meal that impresses without being fussy. It’s hearty, satisfying, and makes incredible leftovers.

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Real & Reliable Ingredients

Here’s a tried-and-true ingredient list for that authentic cheesesteak-meets-meatloaf flavor.

🛒 Ingredients:

• 1 ½ lbs ground beef (85/15 for best balance of fat & flavor)
• 1 small green bell pepper, diced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 cup shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 2 eggs
• ⅓ cup milk

🍅 Topping:

• ⅓ cup ketchup
• ½ tbsp brown sugar
• ½ tsp Dijon mustard
• ½ cup shredded provolone/mozzarella (for topping)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

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How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf

1. Sauté the Veggies

In a skillet over medium heat, cook diced bell pepper, onion, and garlic in olive oil until softened (about 5 minutes). Let cool slightly before adding to the meat mixture.

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2. Mix the Meatloaf Base

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, sautéed veggies, Worcestershire, Italian seasoning, eggs, milk, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.

🔥 Tip: Overmixing leads to tough meatloaf. Mix just until incorporated.

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3. Add the Cheese

Fold in shredded provolone or mozzarella into the meat mixture.

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4. Shape & Bake

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Shape the meat mixture into a loaf on a foil- or parchment-lined baking sheet OR use a loaf pan.

Bake for 30 minutes uncovered.

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5. Add the Glaze & Cheese

Mix ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard. Spread over the partially baked meatloaf. Top with remaining shredded cheese.

Return to the oven and bake for another 15–20 minutes or until internal temp reaches 160°F (71°C).

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6. Rest & Serve

Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with parsley if desired.

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Variations & Add-Ins

🧀 Cheese Options: Try provolone (classic), mozzarella (melty), white American, or even pepper jack for spice.

🥓 Bacon-Wrapped Version: Wrap the meatloaf in bacon before baking for extra flavor and moisture.

🌶️ Spicy Cheesesteak Twist: Add sautéed jalapeños or crushed red pepper to the mix.

🍄 Mushroom Lover’s: Add sautéed mushrooms to the veggie base for umami depth.

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What to Serve With Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf

Pair this hearty meatloaf with:

• Garlic mashed potatoes or baked potatoes
• Air fryer garlic parmesan fries (like the ones we just blogged!)
• Steamed green beans or sautéed spinach
• Mac & cheese for a double-comfort combo
• Crusty bread rolls to mop up the cheesy topping

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Make-Ahead, Freeze & Reheat Instructions

✅ Make Ahead: Assemble meatloaf and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

✅ Freeze: Shape raw loaf, wrap tightly in plastic and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in fridge before baking.

✅ Reheat: Microwave individual slices or reheat entire loaf in oven at 325°F until warmed through (cover loosely with foil).

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Tried-and-True Tips

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the center reaches 160°F without overcooking the edges.
• Resting is essential! Let the loaf sit 10 minutes so juices redistribute.
• If baking in a loaf pan, drain off excess fat halfway through to avoid sogginess.
• Want extra gooey cheese? Place the meatloaf under the broiler for 1–2 minutes at the end.

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FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, but reduce the milk slightly and add more seasoning for flavor.

What’s the best cheese for Philly cheesesteak meatloaf?
Provolone is traditional, but mozzarella, white American, or cheddar all melt well.

Can I make it gluten-free?
Absolutely—use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

Do I need to cover the meatloaf while baking?
No, unless you notice the top browning too quickly. In that case, loosely tent with foil.

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Final Thoughts

This Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf is the perfect marriage of two beloved American classics. It’s tender, loaded with melty cheese, and layered with the savory flavors of sautéed peppers and onions. One slice in and your guests will be hooked.

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this recipe delivers serious flavor and serious comfort—no sandwich roll required.

One bite and you’ll see… it’s not just meatloaf. It’s Philly meatloaf magic.

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